A water-durable construction material that also sequesters CO2

This article was originally posted on Chemical Engineering Online.

Summary

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute developed an enzymatic structural material (ESM) that uses enzyme-enhanced CO2 mineralization to lock carbon into calcium carbonate (CaCO3) crystals within a sand–hydrochar matrix. Made via a capillary-suspension process, the resulting material is water-durable and aims to address construction decarbonization by sequestering CO2 while providing structural performance.

What do you see as the most promising use case for this ESM in real-world construction, and what barriers might slow its adoption compared to conventional cement?

A new structural material builds upon the promise of enzyme-enhanced CO2 mineralization to overcome decarbonization challenges in the construction industry. Researchers from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, led by Nima Rahbar, head of WPI’s Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, developed the new enzymatic structural material (ESM) using a novel capillary-suspension process that incorporates CaCO3 crystals into a sand and carbon matrix (hydrochar).

The post A water-durable construction material that also sequesters CO2 appeared first on Chemical Engineering.

A water-durable construction material that also sequesters CO2

Related Conversations

CarbonStorage launches CCS intelligence platform for tracking low-C infrastructure projects

New transparent insulator material could improve heat efficiency of buildings

Updated membrane material supports low-alkalinity water electorolysis

New high-strength grout provides vibration dampening, structural integrity and chemical resistance

MHI demonstrates production of liquid synthetic fuels using integrated SOEC co-electrolysis

Recent Conversations

New York Building Congress Welcomes Cheryl McKissack Daniel as Historic Next Chair

Future City Finals Spotlight Student-Designed “Farm to Table” Cities in Washington, DC

WyoTech Acquires 5,500 sq. ft. New Building and Expands Welding Program - Double its Current Size

McCarthy Building Companies Strengthens Regional Safety Leadership, Reinforcing Its Commitment to an Industry-Leading Safety Culture

Treatment system for produced water reuse

Your Conversations

New York Building Congress Welcomes Cheryl McKissack Daniel as Historic Next Chair

Future City Finals Spotlight Student-Designed “Farm to Table” Cities in Washington, DC

WyoTech Acquires 5,500 sq. ft. New Building and Expands Welding Program - Double its Current Size

McCarthy Building Companies Strengthens Regional Safety Leadership, Reinforcing Its Commitment to an Industry-Leading Safety Culture

Treatment system for produced water reuse